The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: Andy Hague on September 28, 2014, 03:10:47 pm

Title: Black tear track discharge below the eye
Post by: Andy Hague on September 28, 2014, 03:10:47 pm

I have a Miniature Southdown lamb born this May. She has a black tar-like discharge below each eye. Otherwise she seems to be very healthy, she's certainly fat and she doesn't exhibit any sign of stress or discomfort. I've tried rubbing it away and it's very sticky and matted in with the wool of her face. Does anyone know what this is and if so how I might treat it?

Title: Re: Black tear track discharge below the eye
Post by: kanisha on September 28, 2014, 08:43:26 pm

I believe there is a scent gland below each eye that is responsible; I get the sticky deposits with some of my ewes.

Title: Re: Black tear track discharge below the eye
Post by: Marches Farmer on September 29, 2014, 09:59:28 am

Just trim away the soiled wool - she'll be fine.